Endometriosis can cause severe pain (especially during your period) and can also affect your fertility. The month of March has been designated as Endometriosis Awareness Month to help women recognize signs of endometriosis and seek appropriate treatment.

Endometriosis can cause severe pain (especially during your period) and can also affect your fertility. The month of March has been designated as Endometriosis Awareness Month to help women recognize signs of endometriosis and seek appropriate treatment.

Endometriosis is a painful condition in which the tissue that lines the inside of your uterus, which is known as the endometrium, starts growing outside the uterus and on other pelvic organs. In rare cases, endometrial tissue may spread to areas beyond the pelvis. With each menstrual cycle, endometrial tissue breaks down and is expelled through the uterus. Unfortunately, the endometrial tissue growing outside the uterus has no exit and is trapped within the body causing irritation and inflammation of the surrounding structures.

Common signs & symptoms of endometriosis include:

• Pain during your menstrual period: Pain and cramping may start before your period and continue for several days. You may also feel pain in your lower back and abdomen.

• Pain during sex: A common sign of endometriosis is pain during or after intercourse.

• Heavy bleeding: Excessive bleeding during mensuration or even in between mensuration may be experienced.

• Bowel and bladder problems: These include changes in bowel habits, constipation, diarrhea, frequent urination, and bleeding from the bowel or bladder.

• Tiredness during the time of your period: This could manifest as lack of energy, anxiety, depression, and an overall reduced quality of life.

If you have been trying unsuccessfully to get pregnant and have noticed any of the above-mentioned symptoms, you should speak to your doctor or a fertility specialist about the possibility for being evaluated and treated for endometriosis.

ReproMed Fertility Center offers comprehensive & individualized reproductive care and is dedicated to serving the community in the Greater Dallas Area. Call us today for an appointment.